Normal range magnesium
Pro Research Analysisby 
Searched over 200M research papers
Normal Range of Magnesium: A Comprehensive Overview
Dietary Reference Values for Magnesium
Magnesium is an essential mineral required for numerous physiological functions. The European Food Safety Authority (EFSA) has established Adequate Intakes (AIs) for magnesium based on observed intakes in healthy populations across the EU. For adults, the AI is set at 350 mg/day for men and 300 mg/day for women. For children, the AI varies by age: 160 mg/day for ages 1 to <3 years, 230 mg/day for ages 3 to <10 years, and 300 mg/day for boys and 250 mg/day for girls aged 10 to <18 years. For infants aged 7-11 months, the AI is 80 mg/day. Pregnant and lactating women have the same AI as non-pregnant, non-lactating women, indicating no increased need during these periods .
Serum Magnesium Concentration
Normal Range in Adults
The normal range for serum magnesium in adults is generally considered to be between 1.7 to 2.3 mg/dL (0.75 to 0.95 mmol/L) 457. This range is supported by various studies and is crucial for maintaining physiological functions. Measurements using atomic absorption flame photometry have shown a mean magnesium concentration of 2.00 mg/100 ml with a standard deviation of 0.145, giving a normal range of 1.72-2.28 mg/100 ml .
Variations and Influences
Individual variations in serum magnesium levels can occur within this range, and repeated measurements on the same subjects over time show fluctuations of approximately 0.25 mg/100 ml . Factors such as dietary intake, renal function, and certain medical conditions can influence these levels. For instance, altered magnesium balance is often observed in conditions like diabetes mellitus, chronic renal failure, and cardiovascular diseases .
Pediatric and Neonatal Magnesium Levels
In neonates, serum magnesium levels can be higher than in adults, especially in the first week of life. For newborns without magnesium supplementation during pregnancy, levels at birth are around 0.76 mmol/L, increasing to 0.91 mmol/L during the first week before stabilizing to adult levels. For those with prenatal magnesium supplementation, levels can be as high as 1.44 mmol/L during the first week of life . These elevated levels are generally well-tolerated but require monitoring to avoid potential complications.
Ionized Magnesium
Ionized magnesium (iMg) is the physiologically active form of magnesium. In healthy individuals, the normal range for iMg is between 0.45 to 0.60 mmol/L, which constitutes about 65-70% of the total magnesium in the blood . Monitoring iMg is particularly useful in clinical settings, such as for patients undergoing dialysis, to personalize treatment and ensure proper magnesium balance 710.
Conclusion
Understanding the normal range of magnesium is essential for diagnosing and managing various health conditions. For adults, the serum magnesium range is typically 1.7 to 2.3 mg/dL, while in neonates, levels can be higher initially. Ionized magnesium provides additional insights into magnesium status, especially in clinical settings. Regular monitoring and appropriate dietary intake are crucial for maintaining optimal magnesium levels and overall health.
Sources and full results
Most relevant research papers on this topic